Homeowners across the U.S. are stepping outside and staying there. According to Thumbtack’s newly released 2025 Curb Appeal Report, created in partnership with Zillow, outdoor spaces aren’t just getting more attention this year—they’re redefining how people live at home.
Labeled "The Year of Outdoor Living," 2025 is all about bold outdoor upgrades, long wish lists, and an undeniable lifestyle shift. Based on data from over 1,000 homeowners and trending project insights, the report shows that today’s yards aren’t just places to grill, they’re designed to reflect personal style, bring comfort, and even rival indoor living spaces.
The Outdoor Living Boom
More than one in three homeowners now describe their yard as their sanctuary, and many are making big investments to create dream-worthy outdoor escapes. In fact, 71% of those surveyed said they’d consider going into debt to build the perfect space. Whether it’s a resort-style pool with a waterfall (the most desired feature overall), an outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven, or even a climate-controlled greenhouse, homeowners are reimagining what their yards can be.
The average costs of popular upgrades, based on Thumbtack and Zillow data, include:
- Patio: $4,598
- Fence: $3,314
- Garden: $373–$1,382
- Detached garage: $16,000–$37,000
- Swimming pool: $1,500 to $85,000+
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From Kitchens to Coops
According to the survey, homeowners are willing to give up indoor features, like kitchen islands, home offices, and guest bedrooms, if it means gaining more space or amenities outdoors. Even more telling: 60% of respondents admitted to canceling plans just to stay home and enjoy their yard, while more than a quarter spend 10+ hours a week outside.
And the vision for outdoor living is expanding; there's a growing interest in terms like “barn,” “farm,” and “horses.” More than 50% of homeowners say they’ve dreamed of owning a farm or horses, and 59% would even move farther from a city to have more land.
Not Everything Is a Hit
While many upgrades draw admiration, some outdoor trends are generating neighborhood side-eyes. The report states the following:
- 27% of homeowners are over seasonal inflatables
- 21% aren’t sold on faux grass
- 18% say they'd skip the giant patio television trend in favor of nature
Still, most homeowners are willing to put in the work, and the budget, for spaces that bring joy and boost curb appeal. Top complaints include ongoing maintenance, like weed control and watering, but the desire for a beautiful, functional outdoor area often outweighs the hassle.
Cities Leading the Way
Some cities are paving the path in outdoor design. Based on project requests per capita, markets like Austin, Charlotte, and Atlanta are seeing high activity.
In 2025, curb appeal isn’t just about how a home looks, it’s about how it feels. Homeowners are embracing outdoor living as a lifestyle, and they’re ready to invest and even sacrifice to create spaces that truly reflect who they are.
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